تازہ ترین

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    13 militants killed in Balochistan operation: secu…

    ByJustpaste.in

    QUETTA: Security forces continued intelligence-based operations under Operation Azm in Balochistan, carrying out another targeted raid against suspected militants in Mastung district. According to security sources, the latest operation resulted in the killing of several militants, bringing the total number of militants killed during the ongoing operation to 13. Security sources said the operation was conducted in the Khad Kocha area of Mastung after intelligence reports indicated the presence of armed militants in the region. Troops launched a coordinated operation and engaged the suspects during the raid. According to the sources, several militants were killed during the exchange. Officials did not disclose the exact number of militants killed in the latest action but confirmed that the overall death toll in the operation has now reached 13. The operation also targeted militant infrastructure in the area. Security sources said multiple hideouts allegedly linked to the group referred to as Fitna al-Hindustan were destroyed. They added that dismantling these hideouts is part of broader efforts to disrupt militant activities and prevent future attacks. During the operation, security personnel recovered a cache of weapons, ammunition, explosives and materials allegedly used to manufacture improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Officials said the recovered items would be examined as part of the ongoing investigation. Sources further claimed that several militants were injured during the operation. However, the exact number of those wounded has not been confirmed, and no official details have been released regarding their identities. Security officials said intelligence-based operations are continuing across different parts of Balochistan to eliminate militant networks and improve the overall security situation. They added that such operations are being carried out on the basis of intelligence information to target suspected militant hideouts. According to security sources, the campaign against militant groups will continue until terrorist networks are dismantled and peace and stability are restored across the province. They reiterated the commitment of security forces to maintain pressure on armed groups through sustained intelligence-led operations.

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    52 life-saving drugs clear major approval hurdle

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: A federal cabinet subcommittee has approved the prices of 52 newly registered life-saving medicines, including treatments for cancer, diabetes, haemophilia and Parkinson’s disease, in a move aimed at improving access to essential medicines across Pakistan. The meeting was chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb in Islamabad. The committee reviewed pricing proposals for newly registered medicines and approved the prices for all 52 products. Officials said the approved medicines include several advanced treatments for serious and chronic illnesses. Among them is Keytruda, a modern immunotherapy drug used globally to treat more than 20 types of cancer. Other approved medicines include Nivolumab, Dasatinib, Meropenem and insulin, which are widely used to treat cancer, severe infections and diabetes. The pricing decision will now be sent to the federal cabinet for final approval. Once endorsed, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) will issue an official price notification, allowing the medicines to be legally marketed and sold in the country. Health Ministry officials said early approval of medicine prices was necessary to address the difficulties faced by patients. Delays in pricing had prevented several newly registered medicines from entering the local market, forcing many patients to rely on unregistered, smuggled or costly imported alternatives. Authorities believe the approval will improve the availability of high-quality medicines and reduce dependence on illegal supply channels. They said the move will also help ensure that patients have access to safe and regulated treatments through authorised healthcare providers. During the meeting, the finance minister stressed the importance of transparency and protecting the public interest in decisions related to medicine pricing. He called for a fair pricing mechanism that balances patient affordability with the availability of essential medicines.

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    SHC rejects contract employee’s regularisati…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Sindh High Court (SHC) has dismissed a petition filed by a contract employee of the Zulfiqarabad Development Authority seeking permanent employment, ruling that the request was not maintainable at the preliminary stage. The constitutional bench held that a contract employee does not acquire a legal right to permanent employment merely by serving for a long period. The court observed that contractual appointments remain subject to the terms and conditions agreed upon at the time of hiring. According to the court, the petitioner’s employment contract expired in 2024 after completing its specified term. Since the contract had already ended, the petitioner could not claim permanent status solely on the basis of continued service. Justice Adnan-ul-Karim Memon observed that employment on a contractual basis does not automatically create a legal entitlement to permanent appointment. He noted that permanent regularisation can only be granted if there is a relevant law or an approved policy issued by the competent authority. The court ruled that, in the absence of such legal provisions or an authorised policy, the petition seeking permanent employment had no legal basis. Consequently, the constitutional bench declared the petition inadmissible at the initial stage and dismissed it.

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    LHC says illness, physical weakness can justify ba…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Lahore High Court (LHC) has ruled that illness, physical weakness, old age or disability can serve as valid legal grounds for granting post-arrest bail, issuing an important judgment on bail applications filed on medical grounds. Justice Amjad Rafiq issued a detailed written verdict while deciding the post-arrest bail petition of Dr Iftikhar Ahmed, who is suffering from Parkinsonism, a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and physical independence. The court observed that if a prison medical report confirms that an accused is physically weak, there is no need to separately assess the severity of the illness. It held that physical weakness itself may be sufficient to justify consideration for bail. According to the judgment, illness and physical weakness are separate legal grounds for granting bail. The court noted that imprisonment can cause greater hardship for elderly, physically weak and disabled individuals, and the justice system should protect them from unnecessary physical suffering. The LHC further stated that the bail application had not been filed on the merits of the criminal case but solely because of the accused’s deteriorating physical condition. The prison medical report confirmed that Dr Iftikhar Ahmed was suffering from Parkinsonism, a disease that gradually limits a person’s physical abilities and independence. Rejecting the prosecution’s argument, the court ruled that the mere fact an accused is receiving medical treatment in prison cannot, by itself, be used as a reason to deny bail. The judgment also referred to principles of Islamic law and international judicial precedents, stating that sick, elderly and vulnerable individuals are entitled to special legal protection and humane treatment. The Lahore High Court granted post-arrest bail to Dr Iftikhar Ahmed against surety bonds of Rs1 million. The court directed the accused not to influence prosecution witnesses, to surrender his passport and not to leave the court’s jurisdiction without prior permission. Dr Iftikhar Ahmed has been in jail since March 2025 in a case registered at Sabzazar Police Station, where he is accused of administering an incorrect injection to a citizen’s son. The criminal proceedings will continue in accordance with the law.

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    Pakistan’s hockey error hands India edge

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s hockey team suffered a disappointing defeat against India in the group stage of the Asian Five-a-Side Hockey Tournament after a serious mistake by the team management resulted in a breach of tournament rules. During the match, Pakistan mistakenly fielded six players instead of the permitted five. In Five-a-Side Hockey, each team is allowed to have only five players on the field at any given time. The error was spotted by match officials, who immediately informed the umpires. After the violation was identified, the umpires ordered two Pakistani players to leave the field. The decision left Pakistan with only three players on the pitch for a short period as a penalty for the rules breach. India took full advantage of Pakistan’s numerical disadvantage. Playing with fewer players made it difficult for Pakistan to defend and maintain possession, allowing India to dominate the game during that phase. The Indian team eventually secured victory in the group-stage encounter. The defeat has been linked to the management’s mistake rather than the players’ performance on the field. The incident has raised concerns over the handling of team operations and compliance with tournament regulations during an important international competition. Five-a-Side Hockey follows strict rules regarding the number of players on the field. Any violation can result in immediate penalties that may significantly affect the outcome of a match. Officials acted quickly after noticing the extra player, ensuring that tournament regulations were enforced. Despite the setback, both Pakistan and India have qualified for the final of the Asian Five-a-Side Hockey Tournament. The two rivals are set to meet once again in the title clash later today. The final will give Pakistan an opportunity to recover from the earlier defeat and compete for the championship. The team will also aim to avoid the costly mistakes that affected its performance in the group-stage match. Hockey fans will be hoping for a disciplined display as Pakistan looks to avenge its earlier loss and challenge India for the tournament trophy.

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    Guterres to make historic Syria visit after 17 years

    ByJustpaste.in

    United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will visit Syria on Saturday. It will be the first visit by a serving UN secretary-general to the country since 2009. The visit comes at a major turning point for Syria. The country is trying to rebuild after years of war, political instability and international isolation. Syria’s conflict began in 2011. It continued for almost 14 years. The war killed hundreds of thousands of people. Millions more were forced to leave their homes. The conflict ended with the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024. Syrian opposition forces removed Assad from power after a rapid offensive. The country is now being led through a transitional period under President Ahmed al-Sharaa. His administration is seeking to establish a new political system and restore Syria’s relations with the international community. Guterres is expected to meet Sharaa during his visit to Damascus. He will also hold talks with Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani. The UN secretary-general is also expected to meet other Syrian officials. He will hold discussions with representatives of civil society as part of his visit. The United Nations says Guterres will focus on Syria’s future. He is expected to underline the importance of creating a stable, inclusive and prosperous country. The visit is also expected to highlight the need for national reconciliation. Syria faces major challenges after years of destruction and displacement. The country’s transition has not been without difficulties. Sectarian violence remains a serious concern. Large numbers of Alawites were killed in violence in Syria’s coastal region last year. The Alawite community was closely associated with the former Assad government. Violence later affected the Druze community in southern Syria. Hundreds of people were reportedly killed during clashes. Guterres has expressed concern over both episodes of violence. He has called for accountability and protection for Syria’s minority communities. The new Syrian government is also working to restore diplomatic relations. Damascus wants to move beyond the alliances that dominated the country during Assad’s rule. Syria had long relied heavily on Russia and Iran. The new leadership is now seeking broader international engagement. Sharaa has already taken steps towards rebuilding Syria’s global diplomatic presence. Last year, he became the first Syrian president since 1967 to attend the UN General Assembly in New York. Washington has also taken steps towards improving relations with Damascus. The United States has removed most of its broad sanctions on Syria. US President Donald Trump has also indicated that Washington intends to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism. Guterres is expected to address Syria’s new parliament on Monday. The speech could focus on the country’s political transition and its future relationship with the international community. He will also visit a UN peacekeeping force operating near the Israeli-Syrian frontier. The force has maintained a buffer zone between Israeli and Syrian forces for decades. The situation in southern Syria remains sensitive. Israeli forces have occupied additional areas in the region since Assad’s removal. The Syrian government has demanded the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Damascus has also called for a return to the 1974 disengagement agreement. Guterres’ visit therefore carries significant diplomatic importance. It comes as Syria attempts to rebuild its institutions, economy and international relationships. For the United Nations, the visit also provides an opportunity to engage directly with Syria’s new leadership.

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    Iran accuses EU of hypocrisy as war tensions rise

    ByJustpaste.in

    Iran has accused the European Union of hypocrisy over its criticism of Iran’s human rights record. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei made the remarks in response to comments by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Baghaei said the EU could not claim to defend human rights while, in Iran’s view, supporting military actions against the country. He accused European governments of providing logistical and technical assistance that Iran says has helped attacks against civilians and critical infrastructure. Baghaei also criticised the EU for what he described as its failure to condemn attacks on Iran. He said European officials had not shown enough concern over Iranian civilians, including children, killed during the conflict. He said the EU’s position had damaged its credibility and called its approach hypocritical. The accusations come as the conflict between Iran and the United States enters another dangerous phase. US President Donald Trump said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit Washington next Tuesday. The meeting is expected to focus heavily on the ongoing conflict with Iran. The announcement comes after another wave of US military strikes against targets in Iran. Trump has continued to threaten stronger military action while also keeping the possibility of negotiations open. He said Washington is currently talking with Tehran and suggested that Iranian officials appear more serious about negotiations than before. At the same time, Trump warned that the US military remains prepared for further action. He said Washington faces two possible paths. One is to continue expanding military operations. The other is to reach a diplomatic agreement. The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the crisis. The strategic waterway is a major route for global energy supplies. The conflict has already disrupted shipping and pushed oil prices higher. It has also raised concerns about inflation and a wider global economic slowdown. The situation has become more complicated with Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. The group has declared a naval blockade targeting Saudi Arabia and has threatened commercial shipping. A Saudi vessel suffered minor damage in a Red Sea attack on Friday, according to Saudi state media. The Saudi-led coalition later said it had carried out strikes against Houthi military positions in Yemen. The reports could not be independently verified. Iran has also issued increasingly strong warnings to US forces in the region. The US military has carried out air strikes against Iran for several consecutive nights. Iran’s Health Ministry said dozens of people had been killed and hundreds wounded since fighting resumed in late June. Iranian military officials have also threatened retaliation against US personnel for Iranian casualties. The conflict has already resulted in US military deaths and injuries, according to American officials. Meanwhile, Pakistan is exploring possible diplomatic channels to help revive stalled talks between Washington and Tehran. Pakistani officials have reportedly held exploratory discussions as international efforts increase to find a way out of the conflict. China has also been pushing for renewed negotiations. The fighting is also affecting global energy markets and shipping routes. Oil prices surged after attacks on Saudi-linked shipping in the Red Sea. Brent crude later fell but remained close to $100 a barrel. Several tankers have reportedly changed their routes because of security concerns around the Red Sea. Some vessels are taking longer routes through the Suez Canal and around Africa. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has also fallen sharply. Iran has meanwhile claimed attacks on US military positions in Kuwait and other parts of the Gulf. Kuwait said its air defence systems were responding to hostile targets launched from Iran. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also claimed to have damaged a surveillance facility associated with the US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain

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    Jim Carrey pays heartfelt tribute after The Mask d…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Hollywood star Jim Carrey has broken his silence following the unexpected death of acclaimed filmmaker Chuck Russell, the director who helped shape one of the actor’s most beloved films, The Mask. Russell passed away on July 22 at his home in the San Diego area at the age of 74, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Hollywood. His family confirmed his death, though the cause has not yet been disclosed.  Carrey, who starred as Stanley Ipkiss in the 1994 blockbuster, shared an emotional statement remembering the filmmaker’s creativity, warmth, and joyful spirit. Speaking to People, the actor said it was a privilege to work alongside Russell and praised the director for creating a fun, imaginative atmosphere on set. “I consider it a privilege to have worked with Chuck Russell, who, during the shooting of The Mask, created an ebullient, childlike atmosphere of wonder and camaraderie on his set,” Carrey said. He added that everyone involved in the production was inspired by Russell’s playful energy and passion for filmmaking.  Released in 1994, The Mask became a massive box-office success, earning more than $351 million worldwide. The film not only cemented Jim Carrey’s status as one of Hollywood’s biggest comedy stars but also introduced Cameron Diaz in her feature film debut. Russell’s unique vision transformed the Dark Horse comic adaptation into a colorful, family-friendly comedy filled with groundbreaking visual effects that continue to impress audiences decades later.  Chuck Russell’s career extended far beyond The Mask. He directed fan-favorite films including A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors, The Blob, Eraser starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, and The Scorpion King, which marked Dwayne Johnson’s first leading film role. His ability to blend action, horror, comedy, and visual innovation made him one of Hollywood’s most versatile directors.  Tributes from across the entertainment industry continue to pour in as colleagues and fans celebrate Russell’s contributions to cinema. For Jim Carrey, the loss is deeply personal, as the filmmaker played a key role in one of the defining moments of his career. Although Chuck Russell is gone, the unforgettable films he created—and the memories shared by those who worked with him—will ensure that his legacy lives on for generations of movie lovers.  

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    Olivia Culpo reveals birth plan for second baby as…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Olivia Culpo is opening up about the realities of preparing for baby number two, offering fans an honest glimpse into her birth plan while husband Christian McCaffrey gears up for another demanding NFL season. The former Miss Universe, who is currently in her third trimester, admitted that this pregnancy feels very different from her first as she navigates motherhood alongside her husband’s football commitments.  In a recent TikTok “Get Ready With Me” video, Culpo shared that she has been feeling especially emotional as McCaffrey prepares to return to training camp with the San Francisco 49ers. While many fans associate the NFL season with September kickoffs, Culpo pointed out that players report for training camp in late July, meaning the family’s routine changes well before the regular season begins.  The 34-year-old model also revealed that she will deliver her second child via a scheduled C-section. Having undergone a cesarean delivery with her first child, daughter Colette Annalise McCaffrey, last year, Culpo explained that a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is not an option for her. As a result, she and McCaffrey carefully planned the procedure around one of the NFL star’s lighter workdays, allowing him to be present for the birth before returning to his team shortly afterward.  Although the arrangement is bittersweet, Culpo remains optimistic. She admitted that knowing McCaffrey will head back to football soon after the baby’s arrival makes this experience very different from welcoming their first child. Still, she expressed gratitude for the strong support system surrounding her, saying she is thankful for her family, friends, and those helping her through the transition.  Culpo and McCaffrey have been together since 2019 and tied the knot in June 2024. They welcomed their first daughter, Colette, in July 2025 before announcing in May 2026 that they were expecting their second child. Their pregnancy announcement, shared on Culpo’s birthday, featured heartfelt family photos and sonogram images, delighting fans across social media.  As the couple prepares to expand their family, Culpo’s candid update has resonated with many parents who understand the challenge of balancing family milestones with demanding careers. Despite the emotional adjustments ahead, she remains focused on welcoming her newest addition while celebrating the unwavering support she shares with McCaffrey, proving that teamwork extends well beyond the football field.   

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    Pakistan invites foreign investors as UK peer prai…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has assured foreign investors of full government support, saying Pakistan is ready to facilitate investment and provide opportunities across different sectors. Naqvi made the remarks during a meeting with British House of Lords member Lord Zamir Choudrey in Islamabad on Saturday. The interior minister said Pakistan has significant investment potential and that the government wants to create an environment where foreign investors can operate with greater confidence. He assured investors that all possible facilities would be provided to support their business activities in the country. The discussion also covered regional peace and stability. Naqvi said Pakistan was continuing its efforts to promote lasting peace in the region. He expressed optimism that the country’s diplomatic and peace initiatives would produce positive results. Lord Zamir Choudrey appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to contribute to regional stability. He also praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir for their efforts to promote peace. Choudrey said the government’s policies were helping create new opportunities for investment in Pakistan. The meeting comes as Islamabad seeks to strengthen economic ties with international partners while promoting Pakistan as an attractive destination for foreign investment. Pakistan has also been increasing cooperation with China on security and counterterrorism matters. Earlier this month, Naqvi met Chinese Minister of State for Public Security and Special Service Bureau chief Ling Zhifeng at the United Nations headquarters in New York. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in internal security. Their discussions included border management, illegal immigration and efforts against drug trafficking. Meanwhile, security concerns surrounding Chinese nationals working in Pakistan remain a major issue. The CPEC Secretariat has decided to purchase a new bulletproof vehicle costing Rs95 million to strengthen security arrangements for Chinese citizens. The vehicle will reportedly be a 3,500cc Toyota Land Cruiser. It will be added to the existing fleet of security vehicles used for the protection of Chinese nationals. Government departments have also acquired or are seeking additional bulletproof vehicles and helicopters for security purposes. Officials have said Chinese citizens face significant security risks in Pakistan. As a result, they are generally restricted from travelling in ordinary, non-bulletproof vehicles. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said the protection of Chinese nationals is a key responsibility of the Pakistani government. The purchase also highlights the security challenges linked to major China-Pakistan economic projects. The government is balancing efforts to attract more foreign investment with measures aimed at improving the security of international investors and workers.